Whirlpool to clean up contamination in Fort Smith

FORT SMITH, Ark. (KFSM)- When contamination surfaced at the old Fort Smith Whirlpool plant last year, many became concerned about the potential hazards. Now, the company is doing something about it.

5NEWS reported that they finalized their new plan of attack this week, saying they will resolve groundwater pollution on and off the site. Despite Whirlpool's announcement - some residents aren't so sure.

"I don't believe any of it. I'm still not going to believe any of it. I wake up every day feeling like I'm dying. I feel like I have the flu all the time. I don't like it," said Sarah Winters.

Fort Smith officials also want to make sure the state's environmental authorities are signed on.

"I want to make sure that they are making progress that it is not lip service that it is genuine Whirlpool and The ADEQ both are accountable," added Philip Merry from the Fort Smith Board of Directors.

Everyone will have a chance to express their opinion on the issue. The proposed plan will be discussed at a public forum in August.